Decatur County Schools

INVITATION TO BID: • Asphalt paving at Riverside High School Baseball Facilities.

Attention: It's time for Pre-K Registration!!!

✨ MRS. MELINDA THOMPSON ✨ Decatur County Director of Schools - - Beginning in 2025-26 - - . The Decatur County School System proudly welcomes Mrs. Melinda Thompson as the Director of Schools for the 2025-26 school year. With over 30 years of dedicated service to the district, Mrs. Thompson brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to student success. Throughout her tenure, she has served in various roles, including 1st-grade teacher at Parsons Elementary School, Director of Coordinated School Health, Curriculum and Instruction Supervisor, and most recently, Principal of Decaturville Elementary School. Reflecting on her new role, Mrs. Thompson shared, “It is an honor to have been chosen as the Director of Schools for Decatur County. I am deeply grateful for the outpouring of love and support from so many as I embark on this new journey, and I appreciate the faith the board has placed in me to lead our district forward. I believe God places us in roles that allow us to serve others and glorify Him, and I truly feel called to this position. There is no greater platform for making a lasting impact than education. Every person in our school system has the power to positively influence students’ lives. As Director of Schools, my goal is to empower educators and administrators so they can meet students’ needs, challenge their abilities, and prepare them to become productive adults who will invest in our communities. Ultimately, every decision we make should reflect our commitment to positive student outcomes. I look forward to working alongside our staff, students, parents, board, and community as we continue to learn and grow together.” . Mrs. Thompson’s appointment has been met with widespread support. Kent Whitwell, Chairman of the Decatur County Board of Education, expressed his confidence in her leadership, stating, “On behalf of the Decatur County School Board, we congratulate Mrs. Thompson on this well-deserved achievement. We are excited about her vision for the future of our students, the advancement of our staff, and the continued progress of our school system as a whole. We look forward to supporting her in this new role.” . Retiring Director of Schools, Chris Villaflor, expressed his respect and confidence in Mrs. Thompson’s leadership, sharing heartfelt reflections on their years of working together. “I first met Miss Melinda nearly thirty years ago when I was appointed principal of Parsons Elementary School. At the time, I remember seeing a soft-spoken, seemingly timid young teacher and wondering if she might struggle with classroom management. That was my first impression—boy, was I wrong! Despite her quiet demeanor, Miss Melinda ran a classroom that was engaging, respectful, and filled with students who genuinely enjoyed learning. She didn’t need a loud voice or an iron fist to maintain control; her presence and approach spoke volumes. Fast forward twenty-nine years to 2019: I was elected Director of Schools, and Mrs. Thompson was serving as principal of Decaturville Elementary School (D.E.S.). Together, along with principals from three other schools, we faced challenges including the coronavirus pandemic, ‘hurricanados,’ flooding, the implementation of TISA (a new funding formula), and even a couple of winters at D.E.S. with temporary heating. Through it all, our students flourished. Under Mrs. Thompson’s leadership, Decaturville Elementary has thrived. As the only school with the same principal for the past six years, D.E.S. operates like a well-oiled machine. Students are the priority, learning is a daily expectation, and both staff and students enjoy coming to school. Their efforts have paid off—D.E.S. has earned the title of Reward School multiple times over the past six years. Always humble, Mrs. Thompson is quick to credit her faculty and staff for their dedication and teamwork in the school’s success. Without a doubt, she possesses the skills, talent, and leadership qualities to excel as the new Director of Schools.” . With Mrs. Thompson at the helm, Decatur County Schools is poised for continued growth and success, driven by her unwavering dedication to students, staff, and the entire community.

Students aged 10 and younger, mark your calendars! 📆

Decatur County Schools Family, Attached is a heartfelt Thank You card from Mrs. Michelle Crowell in appreciation of the monetary gift collected for her husband, Lee, who recently passed away. Lee Crowell will be greatly missed. Please continue to keep Mrs. Crowell and her family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. Thank you all for your kindness and support.

Decatur County Board of Education Meeting Thursday, March 13, 2025 Public input begins at 6:00 p.m., and the meeting starts at 6:15 p.m.

🎉 Exciting News for Decaturville Elementary! ♻️ . Decaturville Elementary School is proud to announce that it has been awarded a $1,500 grant from the Tennessee Recycling Coalition (TRC) in partnership with Nobody Trashes Tennessee to support its recycling efforts. This grant will provide much-needed recycling bins throughout its campus, furthering its commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability. Out of 22 applicants, DES was one of only two recipients selected for this prestigious grant, which was open to public and private K-12 schools, municipalities, state parks, government agencies, non-profits, and other organizations across Tennessee. The new recycling bins will directly benefit DES's Environmental Club, helping alleviate some of the club's resource needs while providing students with valuable hands-on learning opportunities. Mrs. Christee Pettigrew, Environmental Club organizer, expressed her excitement, stating: "We are so grateful to have been chosen and to begin a partnership with the Tennessee Recycling Coalition. These bins will be a wonderful learning tool and a fantastic addition to our school." We look forward to seeing this initiative's positive impact on our students and community. Thank you to TRC for their generous support in helping us foster a greener, cleaner future! 🌍💚 #RecyclingMatters #EnvironmentalEducation #ProudToBeDES #SustainabilityInAction

EVERYONE, PLEASE PARTICIPATE! As a part of federal accountability within our school system, we must assess parent attitudes/perceptions about the educational program and facilities available in the Decatur County School System. Please take a few minutes to complete the annual school system survey for each of your children: https://forms.gle/VZR51uakRigy4cYQ8

He's one of ours, Alan Ni! Alan just participated in Tufts University School of Dental Medicine’s White Coat Ceremony—a major milestone on his journey to becoming a dentist! 🦷✨ This special event marks his transition into the profession and his commitment to providing compassionate patient care. Alan, we are so proud of you! This is one step closer to officially becoming Dr. Ni. We know you will continue to achieve great things. Keep shining and inspiring! Congratulations, Alan. Let’s all cheer him on! 🎉 It all started with Decatur County Schools!

📚💕 Spreading the Love of Reading! 💕📚 Riverside High School ladies—Anna Kane Townsend, Trestiy Laster, and Addy Blankenship—took a special moment to read to our Little Panther Preschoolers today! 🌟 It’s heartwarming to see our high school students giving back and making a difference in the lives of our youngest learners. By sharing stories and fostering a love for reading, they’re helping to shape bright futures. Thank you, Anna, Trestiy, and Addy, for your kindness and leadership! 💙🐾 Keep inspiring, one book at a time! 📖✨ #FutureLeaders #ReadingMatters #LittlePantherLove

Does everyone remember how to log in to Parent Vue? Registration is about to begin for next year.

RIVERSIDE HIGH SCHOOL -CHEER COACH POSITION FOR 2025-2026 SCHOOL YEAR The Decatur County School System is seeking applicants for the position of Riverside High School Cheerleading Coach for the 2025-2026 school year. Applicants should submit an application and/or detailed resume that includes previous employment and related Cheerleading coaching experience. A Tennessee Teaching License is preferred but not required to be considered for the position. Applications may be downloaded at www.decaturcountyschools.com or picked up at the Board of Education at 59 West Main Street, Decaturville, TN 38329. Applications/resumes should be sent to Hugh Smith, Human Resources Supervisor, or emailed to hugh.smith@decaturschools.org. The deadline for submission is Friday, March 14, 2025.

💙 In Loving Memory of Mr. Lee Crowell 💙 . With heavy hearts, the Decatur County School System mourns the loss of Mr. Lee Crowell, a vital part of our maintenance department and a cherished member of our school family. Lee was not just a hardworking and dedicated employee—he was a friend to many, always bringing laughter, kindness, and an unwavering willingness to help. . Those who knew Lee remember him as someone who never shied away from a challenge. He approached every task with a can-do attitude, always saying, "Give us a little time, we can figure this out." His quick wit, generous spirit, and love for those around him, including his fondness for animals, made him truly special. . 💬 Mr. Kent Whitwell, Decatur County Board Chairman: "Lee was an asset and an intricate part of Decatur County Schools. He was willing to work and truly a jack of all trades. To say ‘a loss’ is an understatement." 💬 Mr. Chris Villaflor, Director of Schools: "Lee’s optimism and outgoing personality made him the kind of guy you just liked to be around. He enjoyed his work, but most of all, he enjoyed being around people." 💬 Mrs. Melinda Thompson, DES Principal: "Lee was quick-witted and always made us laugh. There was nothing he couldn’t do. We are heartbroken about his passing and will miss him terribly." 💬 Mr. Hugh Smith, HR and Safety Director: "Lee was an outstanding employee, serving the students and staff of Decatur County Schools for many years. He was highly skilled in his profession, had a tremendous work ethic, and was always willing to help others." 💬 Mr. Keith Dickson, Maintenance Director: "You have touched my life in so many ways. Thank you for being my coworker and, most of all, my friend. May the Lord bless you and keep you, may the Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you, may the Lord lift up His face upon you and give you peace." . This is a deep loss for our school family and community. Our hearts go out to the Crowell family and all those who are grieving. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time. . Lee, our friend, you will be greatly missed. 💙🙏 #RememberingLeeCrowell #DecaturCountySchools #ForeverInOurHearts

March Breakfast & Lunch menus for RHS

March Breakfast & Lunch menus for DCMS / DES / PES

As a part of federal accountability within our school system, we must assess parent attitudes/perceptions about the educational program and facilities available in the Decatur County School System. Please take a few minutes to complete the annual school system survey for each of your children: https://forms.gle/RAdBZNXiEjYRcWH9A

Decatur County Board of Education Work Sessions: 📅 Monday, February 24th ⏰ 5:30 PM The agenda will include: • Review and discussion of applications for Director of Schools. 📅 Thursday, February 27th ⏰ 5:30 PM The agenda will include: • A closed executive session with Board Attorney Chris Hayden to discuss pending and threatened litigation. • Review and discussion of applications for Director of Schools. . 📅 Monday, March 3rd ⏰ 5:30 PM The agenda will include: • Interview applicants for Director of Schools. . 📅 Tueday, March 25th ⏰ 5:30 PM The agenda will include: • Discuss end-of-year procedures and set timelines

❄️ Weather Closure Update ❄️ Due to the significant snowfall and freezing temperatures, Decatur County Schools will be closed on Thursday, February 20th, and Friday, February 21st. We want everyone to stay safe and warm and allow parents time to make necessary arrangements for their children. Thank everyone for your understanding and cooperation. We look forward to seeing everyone back on Monday, February 24th! Stay safe! ⛄️

📢 Weather Closure Announcement ❄️ On Groundhog Day, Punxsutawney Phil saw his shadow, predicting six more weeks of winter—you all hoped he was joking! 🌨️ But with the forecast calling for accumulating snow and extreme cold temperatures, Decatur County Schools will be closed on Wednesday, February 19th. We will provide another update tomorrow regarding conditions and any further closures. Thank you for your understanding and patience. Stay safe and warm! 🧤☃️

📢 Celebrating Our Amazing SRO Officers! 🚔💙 Decatur County Schools is proud to recognize and honor our incredible School Resource Officers on this School Resource Officer Appreciation Day! 🎉 These dedicated officers go above and beyond every single day to ensure the safety and well-being of our students, staff, and school communities. From building positive relationships with students to providing security and guidance, their impact is truly immeasurable. Today, and every day, we extend our heartfelt gratitude for your commitment, courage, and the care you show to our schools. Your presence brings peace of mind to parents, teachers, and students alike. Thank you for your service, your dedication, and for being such an integral part of our school family! If you see an SRO today, be sure to give them a big thank you! 👏👏👏 #SROAppreciationDay #ThankYouSROs #DecaturCountySchools #SchoolSafety